Ben White under scrutiny after England snub - he's victim of mischaracterisation

As one of few journalists fortunate enough to have spent time, one-on-one, in the company of Ben White, it has been fascinating to observe the furore caused by the defender's decision to make himself unavailable for England selection.

The opportunity in question arose in the form of an interview for Sky Sports in October. "Good luck - you might need it," was a common reaction from friends and colleagues beforehand. White was not known for relishing his media appearances. He still isn't.

On this occasion, though, without a camera thrust in his face and at ease in the familiar surroundings of Arsenal's London Colney training ground, it was striking to see first-hand just how much public perceptions of the 26-year-old differ from the reality.

White, often mischaracterised as aloof and uninterested, was thoughtful, engaging and generous with his time, fielding questions on topics ranging from the prospect of signing a new contract at Arsenal to the tactical complexities of his role in Mikel Arteta's team.

Self-deprecation was a theme. He shrugged off the skill involved in nutmegging Manchester City's Jeremy Doku in his previous appearance. "I was so tired, I didn't really know what I was doing." He also refused to take any credit for how Bukayo Saka was flourishing in front of him on Arsenal's right flank. "He makes it so much easier than it should be."

What also shone through was the seriousness with which he approaches his job.

"Not being injured and looking after myself is probably the biggest key to how I've progressed through the years," he said when explaining his commitment to using the gym in his home every evening after training. "I think I've always been like that," he added when asked about Arteta's assertion that he